The most common reasons for pain in your left teeth are dental infection, tooth decay, injury to a tooth, or even tooth loss. It could also be referred pain from another area.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of potential causes:
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Tooth Decay (Cavities): Decay erodes the tooth enamel and dentin, potentially reaching the nerve and causing pain. This pain can be localized to the affected tooth or radiate to surrounding areas.
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Dental Infection (Abscess): An infection, often originating from untreated decay, can cause a painful abscess. This pus-filled pocket can develop at the root of the tooth and cause throbbing pain, swelling, and sensitivity.
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Tooth Injury: A crack, chip, or fracture in a tooth can expose the nerve and cause pain, especially when biting down or exposed to temperature changes.
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Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to tooth sensitivity and pain. In advanced stages, gum disease can affect the supporting bone structure of the teeth, leading to loose teeth and pain.
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Referred Pain: Pain originating from another area, such as the sinuses, ear, or jaw joint (Temporomandibular Joint - TMJ), can sometimes be felt in the teeth. This is called referred pain.
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Tooth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can put stress on your teeth and jaw muscles, leading to tooth pain and sensitivity.
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Recent Dental Work: Pain after a filling, root canal, or extraction is common and usually temporary. However, if the pain persists or worsens, consult your dentist.
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Sinus Infection: Your upper teeth are close to your sinus cavities. A sinus infection can cause pressure and pain that can be felt in your upper teeth.
What You Should Do:
The best course of action is to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. They can properly diagnose the cause of your tooth pain and recommend the appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for temporary relief.
